Skopelos is the largest island in the Northern Sporades group, yet remains charmingly untainted by mass tourism. Lush green hillsides carpeted with pine and olive trees sweep down across the countryside, earning Skopelos its worthy title of the Emerald of the Aegean. Its pretty white-washed houses spill in layers down the hillsides giving a truly Greek scene, and the dense pine forests provide a beautiful backdrop for olive groves and wonderful plum, almond and citrus orchards. Days can be spent exploring the wonderful interior of the island, the small villages and churches lounging on lovely sand and shingle beaches and discovering wonderful pebble coves.
The fast hydrofoil service from Skiathos takes a mere 20 minutes to reach the small port of Loutraki at the island's north-western tip, and a further 25 minutes to reach Skopelos Town port. Steeped in history, everywhere you turn in Skopelos there is a reminder of the rich culture of Greece. There are ruins in Glossa dating from 400 BC and ancient walls from the Byzantine time. Skopelos Town itself is built at the foot of a Venetian Castle, whilst at Cape Gourouni the northern most point of the island, the monastery of the Agios Taxiarchos, can be found. Built on the ruins of a 7th century Byzantine church and featuring a working lighthouse, with spectacular views.
This mountainous island offers many natural ravines, gorges and miles of old mule tracks winding across the island for walkers to explore and admire. You can join an organised walk to go bird or butterfly watching or explore the beautiful countryside with a picnic. The narrow streets of the old town are well worth a visit, and an organised walk can be taken. The pathways and stairs are quite steep but the magnificent views make the effort worthwhile!
The beaches in Skopelos are a must – choose from sand, shingle or sheltered pebble coves. Whichever you choose, the crystal clear water lapping the shore will appeal to swimmers and snorkellers alike. Boat trips are available from Skopelos Town, and should you wish, inter-island ferries let you explore the nearby islands including a water taxi from Skopelos Town which can take you to the beach of Glisteri.
Across Skopelos island there are a variety of local amenities and tavernas offering traditional Greek fare. However, for a wider variety a visit to Skopelos Town should not be missed. The harbour is the hub of Skopelos Town, here you can enjoy one of the mouth watering traditional dishes accompanied by a glass of chilled Retsina in one of the many waterfront cafes, bars and tavernas. In the smaller coastal villages, you can enjoy magnificent freshly caught fish whilst gazing out across the picturesque Aegean Sea.
|
